Are bed bugs rapists?

You know, it is fascinating to see what kinds of things people type into search engines. I always wonder what went on in somebody’s head before they started searching for a particular thing. However, somebody asked a question and I’m in the business of providing answers. So I guess that’s that. I can’t see how this information has any practical value to somebody looking to deal with their bed bug problems. But you asked and so you shall receive.

Yes, a male bed bug’s reproductive strategy is considered coercive:

All bedbugs mate via a process termed traumatic insemination. Instead of inserting their genitalia into the female’s reproductive tract as is typical in copulation, males instead pierce females with hypodermic genitalia and ejaculate into the body cavity.

Ugh. I’ve had about enough of the topic after just two sentences. I answered the question and we’re done.

If for some strange reason you are still eager to learn more about the sordid lives of bed bugs (complete with a picture of the act), read more here. There is also a thorough scientific treatment of the topic (with more pictures) here.